Case Studies » Doncaster Precision Castings (DPC)
The challenge
A visit was made to DPC (Doncaster Precision Castings) – Deritend site at Vines Lane in Droitwich, Worcestershire in May 2014 to consider compliance with the Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations 2002 (DSEAR). Subsequently in June 2016 the client requested a re-visit as part of their CI policy and changes within processes.
The site is part of the Doncasters Group who manufacture precision components and assemblies for a wide range of clients - including aerospace, gas turbine and petrochemical sectors.
Operations incorporate specialist wax moulding, fabrication and polishing facilities for a range of metal components. There are approaching 400 persons are employed on-site and the site operations are shift-based over 24 hours and seven days. Key substances in use include flammable gases, liquids and dusts.
The solution provided
As the site operations involve the use of a number of highly flammable substances, the DSEAR survey considered these substances with particular attention being paid to personnel interaction and exposure with regards to the manufacturing processes. The business uses state-of-the-art equipment and skilled personnel produce a range of precision products. It was found that the current controls in place were to high standard but a number of further actions could be implemented to enable the company to further improve on their journey to best practice.
The survey involved working closely with the in-house H&S team, maintenance and process departments.
As the business had such high standards it was found that many good practices were already being employed; however a number of improvement recommendations were identified. These were presented back to the H&S team and helped direct the business to make the improvements.
DPC received a updated detailed report and guidance on the current DSEAR risk for the site; key areas of focus include ensuring effectiveness of technical measures as well as reinforcing storage, planned maintenance and cleaning regimes.
